How to Spot a Legitimate Government Auction (And Avoid Scams)

It’s no secret that government auctions offer some of the best deals on vehicles, motorcycles, and other seized property. But with those great deals comes a flood of shady websites and fake listings trying to take advantage of people. So how do you know if a government auction is the real deal—or just another scam?

1. Check for .gov or Official Agency Sources

Most legitimate government auctions are either hosted directly on .gov websites or clearly tied to a city, state, or federal agency. Examples include:

• GSA Auctions (gsaauctions.gov)
• U.S. Marshals Service Asset Forfeiture Program
• State or local police departments

If the site doesn’t reference the actual government agency or provide verifiable contact information, that’s a red flag.

2. Be Wary of Listings That Sound Too Good to Be True

A 2022 Tesla for $1,500? That’s probably not real. While deals do exist, government auctions still attract other bidders, so while prices can be below market value, they’re rarely unbelievably low. Trust your instincts. If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is.

3. Look for Verified Auction Directories

There are third-party directories that gather and list verified government auctions. One we recommend is Gov-Auctions.org. They’ve been around for years and provide access to auctions across all 50 states, including seized cars, motorcycles, trucks, and more.

These types of directories can help you avoid the scams and go straight to the source.

4. Research Before You Bid

Before placing any bids, do your research:

• Google the auction site’s name with the word “scam” next to it.
• Check for reviews or complaints on forums or Reddit.
• Call the government agency if something doesn’t look right.

Even just a few minutes of digging can save you from getting burned.

5. Avoid Wire Transfers or Crypto Payments

Legit auctions typically accept payment by cashier’s check, money order, or credit card. If a site is demanding Bitcoin or wire transfers with no recourse, walk away.

Final Thoughts

Government auctions can be a smart way to score a deal—but only if you know what to look for. Stick with verified sources, avoid shady listings, and do your homework before you bid.

Want to skip the research and get access to verified listings in your area? Click here to browse current government auctions now.